Following the maxim, “harmony is the study of counterpoint and counterpoint is the study of harmony,” this course is designed to immerse students in the art of contrapuntal writing. Based upon the language of the Common Practice, the art of Bach, and those who followed into the 20th century, we focus on counterpoint within a four-part harmonic framework. We begin by reviewing harmony and its principles, followed by composition exercises in two parts, and later repeated in three parts. Students compose canons and fugues in two and three parts, and apply the principles of counterpoint to other compositional elements and designs. Prerequisites: Literature and Materials II or the equivalent. Placement Interview required. Not subject to N.Y. Philharmonic discount.
Placement Interviews
Fall Semester: September 10 and 11, 4:30 – 7:30 pm
Spring Semester: January 6 and 7, 5 – 7 pm
